Diwali – Festival of Lights

Diwali  (also spelled  Devali  in certain regions) or  Deepavali,[1]  popularly known as the â€Å"festival of lights†, is an important five-day festival in  Hinduism,Jainism, and  Sikhism, occurring between mid-October and mid-November. For Hindus, Diwali is one of the most important festivals of the year and is celebrated in families by performing traditional activities together in their homes. Deepavali is an official holiday in  India,[2]  Nepal,  Sri Lanka,  Myanmar,Mauritius,  Guyana,  Trinidad & Tobago,  Suriname,  Malaysia,  Singapore,[3]  and  Fiji. The name â€Å"Diwali† is a contraction of â€Å"Deepavali† (Sanskrit:  Dipavali), which translates into â€Å"row of lamps†. [4]  Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps (diyas  or  dipas) in  Sanskrit:   ) filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil. During Diwali, all the celebrants wear new clothes and share sweets and snacks wit h family members and friends. Most Indian business communities begin the financial year on the first day of Diwali. Diwali commemorates the return of  Lord Rama, along with  Sita  and  Lakshman, from his fourteen-year-long exile and vanquishing the demon-king  Ravana.In joyous celebration of the return of their king, the people of  Ayodhya, the Capital of Rama, illuminated the kingdom with earthen  diyas  (oil lamps) and burst firecrackers. [5] In Jainism, Diwali marks the attainment of  moksha  or  nirvana  by  Mahavira  in 527 BC. [6][7]  In Sikhism,  Deepavali  commemorates the return of  Guru Har Gobind Ji  to  Amritsar  after freeing 52 Hindu kings imprisoned in Fort  Gwalior  by defeating Emperor  Jahangir; the people lit candles and diyas to celebrate his return. This is the reason Sikhs also refer to Deepavali as  Bandi Chhorh Divas, â€Å"the day of release of detainees†.The festival starts with  Dhanteras  on whi ch most Indian business communities begin their financial year. The second day of the festival,  Naraka Chaturdasi, marks the vanquishing of the demon  Naraka  by  Lord Krishna  and his wife  Satyabhama. Amavasya, the third day of Deepawali, marks the worship ofLakshmi, the goddess of wealth in her most benevolent mood, fulfilling the wishes of her devotees. Amavasya also tells the story of Lord  Vishnu, who in his dwarf incarnation vanquished the  Bali, and banished him to  Patala.It is on the fourth day of Deepawali,  Kartika Shudda Padyami, that Bali went to  patalaand took the reins of his new kingdom in there. The fifth day is referred to as  Yama Dvitiya  (also called  Bhai Dooj), and on this day sisters invite their brothers to their homes. ————————————————- Spiritual significance In each legend, myth and story of Deepawali lies the signi ficance of the victory of good over evil; and it is with each Deepawali and the lights that illuminate our homes and hearts, that this simple truth finds new reason and hope.From darkness into light — the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds, that which brings us closer to divinity. During Diwali, lights illuminate every corner of India and the scent of incense sticks hangs in the air, mingled with the sounds of fire-crackers, joy, togetherness and hope. Diwali is celebrated around the globe. Outside India, it is more than a Hindu festival, it's a celebration of South-Asian identities. 5] While Deepavali is popularly known as the â€Å"festival of lights†, the most significant spiritual meaning is â€Å"the awareness of the inner light†. Central to Hindu philosophy is the assertion that there is something beyond the physical body and mind which is pure, infinite, and eternal, called the  Atman. The celebration of Deepavali as the â€Å"vic tory of good over evil†, refers to the light of higher knowledge dispelling all ignorance, the ignorance that masks one's true nature, not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite,  immanent  and  transcendent  reality.With this awakening comes compassion and the awareness of the oneness of all things (higher knowledge). This brings  ananda  (joy or peace). Just as we celebrate the birth of our physical being, Deepavali is the celebration of this Inner Light. While the story behind Deepavali and the manner of celebration varies from region to region (festive fireworks, worship, lights, sharing of sweets), the essence is the same – to rejoice in the Inner Light (Atman) or the underlying Reality of all things (Brahman). Diwali – Festival of Lights Diwali  (also spelled  Devali  in certain regions) or  Deepavali,[1]  popularly known as the â€Å"festival of lights†, is an important five-day festival in  Hinduism,Jainism, and  Sikhism, occurring between mid-October and mid-November. For Hindus, Diwali is one of the most important festivals of the year and is celebrated in families by performing traditional activities together in their homes. Deepavali is an official holiday in  India,[2]  Nepal,  Sri Lanka,  Myanmar,Mauritius,  Guyana,  Trinidad & Tobago,  Suriname,  Malaysia,  Singapore,[3]  and  Fiji. The name â€Å"Diwali† is a contraction of â€Å"Deepavali† (Sanskrit:  Dipavali), which translates into â€Å"row of lamps†. [4]  Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps (diyas  or  dipas) in  Sanskrit:   ) filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil. During Diwali, all the celebrants wear new clothes and share sweets and snacks wit h family members and friends. Most Indian business communities begin the financial year on the first day of Diwali. Diwali commemorates the return of  Lord Rama, along with  Sita  and  Lakshman, from his fourteen-year-long exile and vanquishing the demon-king  Ravana.In joyous celebration of the return of their king, the people of  Ayodhya, the Capital of Rama, illuminated the kingdom with earthen  diyas  (oil lamps) and burst firecrackers. [5] In Jainism, Diwali marks the attainment of  moksha  or  nirvana  by  Mahavira  in 527 BC. [6][7]  In Sikhism,  Deepavali  commemorates the return of  Guru Har Gobind Ji  to  Amritsar  after freeing 52 Hindu kings imprisoned in Fort  Gwalior  by defeating Emperor  Jahangir; the people lit candles and diyas to celebrate his return. This is the reason Sikhs also refer to Deepavali as  Bandi Chhorh Divas, â€Å"the day of release of detainees†.The festival starts with  Dhanteras  on whi ch most Indian business communities begin their financial year. The second day of the festival,  Naraka Chaturdasi, marks the vanquishing of the demon  Naraka  by  Lord Krishna  and his wife  Satyabhama. Amavasya, the third day of Deepawali, marks the worship ofLakshmi, the goddess of wealth in her most benevolent mood, fulfilling the wishes of her devotees. Amavasya also tells the story of Lord  Vishnu, who in his dwarf incarnation vanquished the  Bali, and banished him to  Patala.It is on the fourth day of Deepawali,  Kartika Shudda Padyami, that Bali went to  patalaand took the reins of his new kingdom in there. The fifth day is referred to as  Yama Dvitiya  (also called  Bhai Dooj), and on this day sisters invite their brothers to their homes. ————————————————- Spiritual significance In each legend, myth and story of Deepawali lies the signi ficance of the victory of good over evil; and it is with each Deepawali and the lights that illuminate our homes and hearts, that this simple truth finds new reason and hope.From darkness into light — the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds, that which brings us closer to divinity. During Diwali, lights illuminate every corner of India and the scent of incense sticks hangs in the air, mingled with the sounds of fire-crackers, joy, togetherness and hope. Diwali is celebrated around the globe. Outside India, it is more than a Hindu festival, it's a celebration of South-Asian identities. 5] While Deepavali is popularly known as the â€Å"festival of lights†, the most significant spiritual meaning is â€Å"the awareness of the inner light†. Central to Hindu philosophy is the assertion that there is something beyond the physical body and mind which is pure, infinite, and eternal, called the  Atman. The celebration of Deepavali as the â€Å"vic tory of good over evil†, refers to the light of higher knowledge dispelling all ignorance, the ignorance that masks one's true nature, not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite,  immanent  and  transcendent  reality.With this awakening comes compassion and the awareness of the oneness of all things (higher knowledge). This brings  ananda  (joy or peace). Just as we celebrate the birth of our physical being, Deepavali is the celebration of this Inner Light. While the story behind Deepavali and the manner of celebration varies from region to region (festive fireworks, worship, lights, sharing of sweets), the essence is the same – to rejoice in the Inner Light (Atman) or the underlying Reality of all things (Brahman).

Financial Management of Goldman Sachs

To ensure adequate returns to the shareholders which will depend upon the earning capacity, market price of the share, expectations of the shareholders. 3. To ensure optimum funds utilization. Once the funds are procured, they should be utilized in maximum possible way at least cost. 4. To ensure safety on investment, i. e, funds should be invested in safe ventures so that adequate rate of return can be achieved. 5. To plan a sound capital structure-There should be sound and fair composition of capital so that a balance is maintained between debt and equity capital.Functions of Financial Management: 1. Estimation of capital requirements: A finance manager has to make estimation with regards to capital requirements of the company. This will depend upon expected costs and profits and future programmes and policies of a concern. Estimations have to be made in an adequate manner which increases earning capacity of enterprise. 2. Determination of capital composition: Once the estimation h ave been made, the capital structure have to be decided. This involves short- term and long- term debt equity analysis.This will depend upon the proportion of equity capital a company is possessing and additional funds which have to be raised from outside parties. 3. Choice of sources of funds: For additional funds to be procured, a company has many choices like- a. Issue of shares and debentures b. Loans to be taken from banks and financial institutions c. Public deposits to be drawn like in form of bonds. Choice of factor will depend on relative merits and demerits of each source and period of financing. 4.Investment of funds: The finance manager has to decide to allocate funds into profitable ventures so that there is safety on investment and regular returns is possible. 5. Disposal of surplus: The net profits decision have to be made by the finance manager. This can be done in two ways: d. Dividend declaration – It includes identifying the rate of dividends and other bene fits like bonus. e. Retained profits – The volume has to be decided which will depend upon expansional, innovational, diversification plans of the company. 6.Management of cash: Finance manager has to make decisions with regards to cash management. Cash is required for many purposes like payment of wages and salaries, payment of electricity and water bills, payment to creditors, meeting current liabilities, maintainance of enough stock, purchase of raw materials, etc. 7. Financial controls: The finance manager has not only to plan, procure and utilize the funds but he also has to exercise control over finances. This can be done through many techniques like ratio analysis, financial forecasting, cost and profit control, etc.Goldman Sachs is a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm that provides a wide range of financial services to a substantial and diversified client base that includes corporations, financial institutions, governments and high-net-worth individuals. When we use the terms â€Å"Goldman Sachs,† â€Å"the firm,† â€Å"we,† â€Å"us† and â€Å"our,† we mean The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (Group Inc. ), a Delaware corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries. References to â€Å"this Form 10-K† are to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011.All references to 2011, 2010 and 2009 refer to our fiscal years ended, or the dates, as the context requires, December 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively. Group Inc. is a bank holding company and a financial holding company regulated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal Reserve Board). Our U. S. depository institution subsidiary, Goldman Sachs Bank USA (GS Bank USA), is a New York State-chartered bank. As of December 2011, we had offices in over 30 countries and 48% of our total staff was based outside the Americas (which includes the countries in North and South America).Our clients are located worldwide, and we are an active participant in financial markets around the world. In 2011, we generated 38% of our net revenues outside the Americas. BUSINESS PRINCIPLE Our clients’ interests always come first. Our experience shows that if we serve our clients well, our own success will follow. Our assets are our people, capital and reputation. If any of these is ever diminished, the last is the most difficult to restore. We are dedicated to complying fully with the letter and spirit of the laws, rules and ethical principles that govern us.Our continued success depends upon unswerving adherence to this standard. Our goal is to provide superior returns to our shareholders. Profitability is critical to achieving superior returns, building our capital, and attracting and keeping our best people. Significant employee stock owinership aligns the interests of our employees and our shareholders. We take great pride in th e professional quality of our work. We have an uncompromising determination to achieve excellence in everything we undertake. Though we may be involved in a wide vvariety and heavy volume of aactivity, we would, if it came to a choice, rather be best than biggest.We stress creativity and imagination in everything we do. While recognizing that the old way may still be the best way, we constantly strive to find a better solution to a client’s problems. We pride ourselves on having pioneered many of the practices and techniques that have become standard in the industry. We make an unusual effort to identify and recruit the very best person for every job. Although our activities are measured in billions of dollars, we select our people one by one. In a service business, we know that without the best people, we cannot be the best firm.We offer our people the oopportunity to move ahead more rapidly than is possible at most other places. Advancement depends on merit and we have yet to find the limits to the responsibility our best people are able to assume. For us to be successful, our men and women must reflect the diversity of the communities and cultures in which we operate. That mearns we must attract, retain and motivate people from many backgrounds and perspectives. Being diverse is not optional; it is what we must be. We stress teamwork in everything we do. While individual creativity is always encouraged, we have found that team effort often produces the best results.

U.S. History - Reflection Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

U.S. History - Reflection Paper - Essay Example While pursuing the course under consideration I came across a few things that were new to me. Britain first lost the War for Freedom in the minds and hearts of the people inhabiting the American colonies, before it lost it on the battlefields of America. Britain never tried to holistically and formally participate in the political issues that were of emotional, social, economic and cultural significance to the colonies. Whatever political influence Britain exercised on the colonies was pecuniary and ‘Britain centric’ in nature that included recognition of the Proclamation Line, posting of British garrisons and imposing arbitrary taxes. Had Britain been more sensitive and astute in its response, perhaps the American Revolution would have never taken place. The other thing that was new to me was the fact that the political and social figures that are oft revered in the American history were marked by immense contradictions in their personal choices and political beliefs. For example Thomas Jefferson is considered to be one of the greatest American Presidents who was publically opposed to slavery. Yet, it was amazing to find out after some research that due to a big personal debt, Jefferson owned slaves for his entire life. 2. One most important thing about the American history that surprised me pleasantly was the text of the Declaration of Independence and its moral and ethical ramifications. I personally feel that the Declaration of Independence is a document that is not only of timeless relevance to the American democracy, but the very ability of its drafters to envisage and formally consolidate the ideals and principles that were of universal appeal and importance, in an age when the means of communication and hence the possibility o f a global spread of ideas was very constrained, is amazing, surprising and pleasant indeed. The Declaration of Independence was indeed a worthy culmination of the liberal ideas enshrined in the Western philosophy and politics. Consider the words: â€Å"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.† The very ability of the drafters to come out with the idea of universal equality in those times is indeed astonishing and surprising. No doubt, at a very late stage, it was Lincoln who once more brought to fore the views and ideals of the Founding Fathers enshrined in the Declaration of Independence to start a war to end slavery, which was to change America forever. I found it really surprising that the Declaration of Independence is a document of recurring importance that is perhaps never going to lose its salubrious fr eshness and appeal in the times to come. 3. The things about the US history that surprised me unpleasantly or disappointed me were the treatment met to the Native Americans and blacks and the very fact that America harbored and exercised imperialist intentions and designs at some time in its history. These aspects of the US history were not only contrary to the American ethos and beliefs, but signified the tendency of a nation to resort to hypocrisy in the face of commercial advantages and interests. Though, the Founding Fathers promised a fair treatment to Native Americans, yet the practice of a specific race to resort to unchecked expansion in the Indian territories, encouraged by a belief in the inferiority of the Native races and culture sounded simply horrific and contradictory. The very same beliefs allowed the plantation holders to exploit the black slaves in an emotional and ethically callous pursuit for

A Communication Media Approach towards Marketing Essay

A Communication Media Approach towards Marketing - Essay Example From this study it is clear that most often the already existing patients constitute an accessible potential for generating additional business. Email newsletters not only allow the healthcare organizations to stay frequently in touch with their customers, but also allow them to keep their customers continually apprised of the availability of new procedures, latest developments taking place in specific fields and specialties, important events, available equipments and varied helpful promotional activities. The already existing patients are often more likely to subscribe to the additional services offered by a healthcare organization, provided they take the care to inform them and communicate with them. Hence, email newsletters are a great means of sharing ideas with the customers.This paper declares that email newsletters are an effective means of communication between the customers and healthcare services providers. They not only prove to be cost effective and efficient in the long run, but allow the service providers to customize their marketing approach, while taking into consideration the health records of the existing customers, available with them. They also allow the service providers to provide links to their central website, which can be used by the customers to access additional information and reassurances if and when required by them.  In an E-commerce approach to healthcare marketing, it is essential to seek and retain customer confidence,... They can choose to subscribe to the newsletters published by the healthcare organizations by simply sharing their email address and ticking the box provided on the websites or the regular paperwork of these organizations (Blumberg, 2005). Anytime, the customers can unsubscribe these newsletters by visiting the oft provided link (Blumberg, 2005). So email newsletters allow the patients to access information, as and when they want. Effectiveness Email newsletters are an effective means of communication between the customers and healthcare services providers. They not only prove to be cost effective and efficient in the long run, but allow the service providers to customize their marketing approach, while taking into consideration the health records of the existing customers, available with them. They also allow the service providers to provide links to their central website, which can be used by the customers to access additional information and reassurances if and when required by the m (Blumberg, 2005). Confidentiality However, care needs to be taken to protect the privacy and confidentiality of the customers while using email newsletters to communicate with them. In an E-commerce approach to healthcare marketing, it is essential to seek and retain customer confidence (McFadyen, 2008). Any inability to safeguard customer confidentiality and privacy may lead to repercussions that may prove to be counterproductive to the business interests of an organization in the long run. It’s Different The suggested mode of conducting marketing communication differs in many ways to the other modes of communication. First and foremost it is quick and cost efficient. Besides, to a great extent it takes the customer consent and preferences into

Response papers Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Response papers - Movie Review Example Rain Man is an American drama movie produced in 1988. It narrates the tale of two brothers, one a selfish, abrasive young man (Charlie Babbitt), and the other an autistic savant (Raymond Babbitt). As the tagline states, it is â€Å"a journey through understanding and fellowship† (Internet Movie Database, 2015). Charlie is in the middle of a financial crisis and finds out that his father has died and handed down the multimillion-dollar family estate to his other son. He is only left with his late father’s car and rose bushes. He investigates where the money is directed and discovers it is sent to a mental institution where his brother (whom he never knew) lives. Charlie wants to get control of the money by attempting to become his brother’s legal guardian. They commence on a long trip back to Los Angeles by road and on the way they discover they actually enjoy each other’s company. By the end of the movie, it is evident that Charlie has changed his attitude towards life and love, in general. The main theme expressed by the movie is that people can change to accept the disabled in our society. It also shows that the disabled possess rare abilities, apart from the shortcomings that other people impose on them. For instance, Charlie discovers that Raymond is an autistic savant; he has an excellent memory and amazing mathematical capabilities. The movie is about change. Unlike his elder brother, Raymond, who remains the same throughout the movie, Charlie transforms from the self-centered young man to one who loves those close to him and sees things from their perspective. The plot shows that the problem lies not in the disabled but the society. The movie is very similar to the article Confronting Ableism by Thomas Hehir. He claims that changing our attitude and approach in dealing with the handicapped is the solution to end stigmatization. Potok (2002) is of the same idea. We need to change how we label people with disabilities and accept

The Impact of Cause Related Marketing on Consumers Research Paper

The Impact of Cause Related Marketing on Consumers - Research Paper Example These will be presented below. This study employs the descriptive research method, which uses observation, interviews and surveys. In this method, it is possible that the study would be convenient and quick since this paper aims to determine the role of training in cultivating corporate culture in managing quality. Descriptive research could also suggest unanticipated hypotheses. Nonetheless, it would be very hard to rule out alternative explanations and especially infer causations. Thus, in this paper it is practical and reliable to use this kind of research approach. This descriptive type of research also utilises observations in the study. To illustrate the descriptive type of research, Creswell (1994) will guide the researcher when he stated: Descriptive method of research is to gather information about the present existing condition. The purpose of employing this method is to describe the nature of a situation, as it exists at the time of the study and to explore the cause/s of particular phenomena. The rese archer opted to use this kind of research considering the desire of the researcher to obtain first hand information from the interviewees so as to formulate rational and sound conclusions and recommendations for the study. All research will possibly involve categorical or numerical data or data that can be use for analysis to help the researcher answer the research questions (Saunders, Lewis,& Thornhill, 2004). Moreover, Saunders et al (2004), defined quantitative as a type of empirical knowledge. Actually, qualitative data are described in expressions of quality (Saunders et al, 2004). Qualitative is the converse of quantitative, which more precisely describes data in terms of quantity (that is, using 'formal' numerical measurement). In connection to this, this chapter will discuss the research approach, information-gathering method, perspective of the research, the research plan, unit of analysis, the respondents of the study, design of interviewing guidelines, validation of the instrument, data representative and reliability, and statistical treatment of data. Research Approach The research described in this document is based fundamentally on both qualitative and quantitative research methods. This permits a flexible and iterative approach. During data gathering the choice and design of methods are constantly modified, based on ongoing analysis. This allows investigation of important new issues and questions as they arise, and allows the investigators to drop unproductive areas of research from the original research plan. Basically, quantitative method is compatible with this study because it allows the research problem to be conducted in a very specific and set terms (Frankfort-Nachmias and Nachmias, 1992). Besides, quantitative research plainly and distinctively specifies both the independent and the dependent variables under investigation (Matveev, 2002). It also follows resolutely the original set of research goals, arriving at more objective conclusions, testing hypothesis, determining the issues of causality and eliminates or minimizes subjectivity of judgment (Matveev, 2002). Furthermore, this method allows for longitudinal

RESEARCH METHODS - Preparing an effective questionnaire that elicits Assignment

RESEARCH METHODS - Preparing an effective questionnaire that elicits the maximum rate of responses - Assignment Example Please go through the questionnaire, and answer the questions. We will collect it from you within 3 days. The questionnaire should not take you more than 20 minutes. The results of this research project will benefit you only, since it will enlighten Etisalat about where it is going strong and where it is lacking, when it comes to its reputation as an employer. We aim to use the results of the survey for future decision making, with respect to policies regarding many work related and employees-affecting issues. The results might not be shared with you, but their after effects will be quite visible to you, in the decisions that are then taken place. You are not exposed to any kind of risks while filling the form and we promise complete confidentiality when it comes to your responses. Your responses will not be shared with anyone and will stay within the research group that is conducting this research. If you do not personally wish to hand over the survey to us, we have alternatives for you. You can leave it in the postbox of Etisalat and address it to us. Your participation is completely your choice and voluntary, but we would love it if you participate. If you have any queries or comments regarding this questionnaire, contact us at 034-5678908. This study has been approved by an external research organization to ensure that it fulfills the ethics of any research. 12. Divide 100 points among the following characteristics of an organization according to how important each characteristic is to you when choosing an employer? For instance, if you think salary is the most important, then assign 50 points to salary, and then divide the remaining points among the other characteristics. The more points you give to a characteristic, the more important it is to you. Remember: the total should come to 100

Strategic Planning and Organizational Mandates Assignment

Strategic Planning and Organizational Mandates - Assignment Example AmeriCare is an organization with the mandate of offing relief programs and health in situations of a disaster by delivering medication and medical supplies to these victims. The organization has the mandate of providing people with humanitarian assistance in different countries around the world. Moreover, the organization has been providing aid worth ten billion to more than one hundred and forty countries (Americares, 2011). Moreover, AmeriCares also provides medical support by establishing free clinics, non-for profit pharmacies and numerous hospitals in different parts of the world to assist poor. Americare is an organization with a mission of offering relief and charitable assistance, thereby responding to emergencies caused by disasters. Moreover, they have upheld values towards their assistance programs, which are offered to victims of a disaster with emergency medical needs. Stakeholders in Americare organization include private sector donors, the government and other associates who facilitate operations of the organization. In fact, these parties assist the organization to execute their mandate of ensuring that people are living longer and healthier. Moreover, this requires supply of critical medicine and health care services to people from different parts of the world. Other stakeholders include leading pharmaceutical companies and medical manufacturers who offer medical supplied to the organization. The organization has managed to acquire partnership with over 2000 hospitals, clinics and community health programs in numerous parts of the world. There are other stakeholders, who include international and local nongovernmental organizations and ministries. Americare has gathered products donations from the private sector, and they determine the urgency of various needs to intervene through their assistance. Moreover, they have the ability to convince their stakeholders to offer financial support, which they send to affected areas through airlift and ocean cargo. Americare has acquired health care professionals, who are deployed in impecunious regions with people suffering from different disasters.

Internet Censorship Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Internet Censorship - Research Paper Example nizations and individuals practice internet censorship because of maintaining the morality in the society, requirement by religion, to conserve the culture of the society, due to authoritative command or due to the requirement by law. There diverse opinions about internet censorship among the people of the modern whereby some support it at the same time others opposing it (Deibert 76). In addition, the degree of internet censorship varies from one country to another or from one organization to another. Some have got suppressed rules on internet censorship while others have extreme legal restrictions whereby even basic information like news that should be passed to the public is suppressed. Moreover, it occurs when sensitive occasions or activities are anticipated to take place. Such events include general elections in various countries to elect new leaders, protests and riots against something. Such censorship is meant not stir incitement among the public to cause more harm during such events. Other fields of censorship are done to protect the legal right to control written work, prevent offensive language against someone and to protect people from getting exposed to disturbing scenes that may cause psychological torture. Most occasions that require internet censorship are related to online censorship that is applied to media and internet. The existing difference between the two is that the limits of a nation sometimes can leak. People can get data which is prohibited in their own country other countries where the same information is not restricted. Therefore, internet censorship must be fully implemented and enforced to ensure there is no access of such information at all. To ensure that this is achieved then sites that should not accessed are completely blocked or only the information that should be communicated to people is filtered. Filtering information or blocking is implemented by use of blacklisting and intensive scrutinization of information that is

Lawyers Working With Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Lawyers Working With Business - Essay Example to consideration include the identity of the business, which should have distinguishable factors in the market place such as trademarks and service marks. It is also essential to protect the identity of the business by registering the trademarks and service marks. Experience is also a decisive factor as it shows the viability of the business concept as well as provides credibility among the franchises. Profitability is also essential as the main goal in business is to make money profitable businesses are, therefore, attractive. Furthermore, the franchisee requires to submit royalties to the parent company based on the revenue. It is essential to, therefore, to ensure that the franchisee is capable of running a sound business in order for the parent company to benefit. Business plans as well as marketing plans are essential components in this process as they ensure that the prospective franchise businesses have an operational framework.2 Other factors that are essential in setting up franchise include the training necessary for the franchises. Significant amount of training in necessary in these instances so that the franchises operate on the same standard as the parent company and training plays a crucial role in this respect. The concept of franchising faces some drawbacks that must be put into consideration by any business contemplating the concept of franchising. These drawbacks include the reduced amount of control over the franchise in terms of products and services which may subsequently lead to a variety of quality across stores. The potential of earning revenue also reduces as the parent company entitlement is only a portion of the revenue from the franchisee. It is, however, noteworthy that there is a higher potential for growth and success of franchising... This paper stresses that leasing eases the budgeting process of the company as the lease payments fixed initially and forecasting the cash and budgeting requirement becomes easier. The lease cost can be incorporated into the business budgets more easily due to the regular occurrence and allows a better control into the business cash flow. Seasonal or skip payments can be arranged in this scenario to reduce the time and financial constraints. Leases also facilitate tax benefits as it establishes flexibility in gaining tax benefits from various situations, therefore, facilitating a reduced cost in the equipment. Leases usually considered as operating costs and often deducted from the taxable profits of the business. When properly structured, a lease agreement allows for tax benefits passed on to the Lessee due to competitive rates and lower fees. This report makes a conclusion that that leasing provides an out of the balance sheet financing where the business obligations to pay the lease in not included in the balance sheet. This obligation, which is a liability to the business, does not reflect on the balance sheet and affects the solvency of the business as the liability of the equipment not included. Because this lease liability does not reflect in the business balance sheet, the measure of financial leverage according to the balance sheet improves. The ratio of total l liabilities to equity improves, therefore, resulting in better credit ratings and ultimately low interest rates on finances towards the business.

Bulgarian and Romanian Essay Example for Free

Bulgarian and Romanian Essay Bulgarian and Romanian citizens are free to live and work in the I-JK after controls in place since 2007 expired. Home Affairs Select Committee chairman Keith Vaz greeted the first flight from Romania as it landed at Luton airport on Wednesday morning. Romanian Victor Spiersau was aboard and said: l dont come to rob your country. I come to work and go home. The UK has not released forecasts of migrant numbers, but campaigners say up to 50,000 people a year could come. Immigration minister Mark Harper said curbs on access to benefits would ensure hose heading to the uK would contribute to the economy. New arrivals One of the planes passengers, Victor Spiersau, was coming to the country for the first time. Nigel Farage: Its irresponsible to open the door unconditionally The 30-year-old said he already had a car washing Job lined up that would earn him 10 euros (‚Â ¬8) an hour an improvement on the 10 euros a day he received working in the construction industry at home. l dont come to rob your country. I come to work and then go home, he said. Here you paya lot; in Romania its very cheap. Mr Spiersau added: l dont want to stay here. I want to renovate my home and to make a good life in Romania because its much easier to live in Romania because its not expensive. A Home Offce spokesman said the government was working to reduce net migration and would ensure people entering Britain were doing so for the right reasons. However, more than 60 MPs are backing a campaign to extend the restrictions for a further five years, saying the British economy has not sufficiently recovered from the 2008 recession to cope with the change and that It will put pressure on public services and reduce Job opportunltles for Brltlsh workers. Welfare strain Laszlo Andor, the EU commissioner for employment, social affairs and Inclusion, said there were already three million people from Bulgaria and Romania llvlng In other European union member states. continue reading tne maln story Analysis image of Mark Lowen Mark Lowen BBC News, Bucharest Its a special new year for Romanians and Bulgarians, finally gaining equal rights to work freely across the EIJ seven years after their accession. Some, particularly Britain, fear large numbers will come, mindful that a decade ago the government expected 15,000 per year from Eastern Europe but a million and a alf came. No extra flights have been planned from Bucharest but one coach company has tripled services to London. Many here talk of their hopes of a better life with higher salaries but nobody knows quite how many will finally leave. It is unlikely that there will be any major increase following the ending of the final restrictions on Bulgarian and Romanian workers, he said. Mr Andor said his organisation recognised that migrant influxes could strain welfare systems in host countries but since the EIJ provided contingency funds for this it was no reason to put up barriers. He said migrants were essential to economic recovery and must be protected from discrimination. l firmly believe that restricting the free movement of European workers is not the answer to high unemployment or a solution to the crisis, he added. Migration Watch which campaigns for tighter controls on immigration has suggested that many of the two million Romanians and Bulgarians currently working in Spain and Italy could now be tempted to come to the I-JK by the higher wages and access to in-work benefits such as tax credits.

Employees Motivation of Ernst & Young in Malaysia

Employees Motivation of Ernst & Young in Malaysia The purpose of this research is to study the factors that affect the motivation of Ernst Young employees in Malaysia branches. Also explore how these motivation theories influence Ernst Young to its employees and be able to recommend new motivational programs to the management that will improve the current motivational practices of the employees. Objectives: To identify the motivational factors that motivate Ernst Young employee To investigate how Maslow Hierarchy Theory affect the motivation To understand the important reasons why employees retain or leave in the company and how motivation theories have emerged in attract talent employees To find out the role of leadership and management in motivating employee in Ernst Young Research Question: How the effects of compensation/salary and rewards to employee motivation? How does teamwork affect work performance and motivation? How do achievement and recognition affect motivation and job satisfaction? Introduction: Motivation is define as The willingness to exert high levels of effort toward organizational goals, conditioned by the efforts ability to satisfy some individual need (Stephen P. Robbins, 1998). On the other hand, employee motivation is defined psychological forces that determine the direction of a persons behavior in an organization, a persons level of effort and a persons level of persistence (Gareth R, Jennifer M GEORGE Charles WL HILL, 2000). Employee motivation is a key to the overall effectiveness of an organization. In the Maslows Hierarchy of Needs consists of five different levels, which included physiological, safety, social, esteem and self-actualization. This theory explains that employees at organizations are motivated by the desire to achieve or maintain the various conditions upon which these basic satisfactions rest and by certain more intellectual desires (Maslow, 1943). If a lower level need is not met, the person is less motivates to attend the higher level needs until it has been satisfied. While the expectancy theory attempt to explain workers motivation in terms of rewards. This theory assumes that people make rational decisions based on economic realities (Kreitner, R., Kinicki, A., Cole, N., 2003). According to V. H. Vroom suggested that people on purposely choose particular courses of action, based on perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs, as a consequence of their desires (V. H. Vroom, 1964). In other words, Expectancy theory is emphasizes on individual perceptions of the surroundings and connections arising as a consequence of personal expectations. At the present, compensation is necessary to employee motivation. If a company can satisfied an employee financial needs, the employee would naturally be motivated to work harder. Besides that, leadership also affects employee motivation. A successful leader has a different view in the chain of command. He recognizes the importance of influencing the follower gently towards a desired goal (Miller, 1996). He does not force or pushed the followers to accomplish the goal of the organization (Maccoby, 1996). Company Background: Ernst Young is recognized as one of the largest professional services firms in the world and global organization of member firms in more than 140 countries (Ernst Young, 2010). Its international headquarters are located in London, UK and New York, US. Currently the company surrounded of 144,000 employees globally (Ernst Young, 2010). Ernst Young Malaysia was established in 1909 and it was one of the first internationally linked public accounting firms in the country (Ernst Young Malaysia, 2010). In 2002, one of the first Bumiputra accounting firm in Malaysia founded by Hanafiah, Raslan Mohamad in 1964 are became a member firm of Ernst Young. Ernst Young is now the largest professional services firms with more than 2,300 employees in 17 offices in West and East Malaysia (Ernst Young Malaysia, 2009). Ernst Young Malaysia is a market leader in the provision of assurance and advisory business services, tax and transaction advisory services, serving a board array of clients, cov ering all industries and market segments. Significance of Study: This research aims is to conduct research and examine the current factors that motivates the employees in Ernst Young Malaysia. Besides that, this project also explore the factor influencing work motivation and job satisfaction for getting better performance and high productivity. The essence of that approach is to create basic conditions regarding changing job characteristics that promote high performance motivation, high satisfaction at work and match the job with the individual. Literature Review: Previously employees were considered just another input into the production of goods and services in the organization point of view (James R. Lindner, 2010). Nevertheless the Hawthorne Studies has changed the way for organization to think about the employees (Elton Mayo, 1924 to 1932). These studies found out that monetary needs do not motivate employees toward full potential, but it is the employee attitudes and behavior (Elton Mayo, 1924 to 1932). To better understand the employees motivation, management has to realize the whole concept of motivation. There are many motivation theories developed by the researches and theorists examine on what motivated employees and how they were motivated. The most fundamental theory of motivation is Maslows Hierarchy of Needs. And it has become one of the most popular and frequently cited theories of human motivation. The theory consists of five different levels, which are physiological, safety, social, esteem and self-actualization. This theory explains that employees at organizations are motivated by the desire to achieve or maintain the various conditions upon which these basic satisfactions rest and by certain more intellectual desires (Maslow, 1943). According to Abraham Maslow, the most basic needs are physiological. Physiological needs are refer to those that sustain physical life, such as the need for food. Subsequently are safety needs, the want for physiological safety such as shelter. Next is a social need, is the need for friendship, social and love. In the need for self-esteem is referring to accomplish self-respect or to feel that one is  worthwhile and successful. Finally, there self-actualization is for self-fulfillm ent and to achieve all that one is potentially capable of. These two growths need to drive the person to want recognition from others, development, challenge, and the freedom to be creative and innovative. Daniels (2001) recommended that Maslows final conclusion that the self-actualization is inspiring in their nature may be one of his most important contributions to the study of human behavior and motivation (Daniels, 2001). There are several studies that have been concluded based on Maslow hierarchy to support the suggestions of William James (1892/1962) and Mathes (1981). William James theorized the levels of material, social, and spiritual. While Mathes proposed the three levels were physiological, belonginess, and self-actualization. Nevertheless he considered safety and self-esteem as unnecessary. In addition, Alderfer (1972) has developed a similar hierarchy with his ERG theory, which included Existence, Relatedness, and Growth. He adapted Maslows theory based on the effort of Gordon Allport (1960, 1961) who integrated concepts from systems theory into his work on personality. The expectancy theory assumes that people make rational decisions based on economic realities (Kreitner and Kinicki, 1998). Vaida (2003) claimed that incentives used to reward excellent performance and in work processes. Additionally, Hoy and Miskel (1991) agree that incentives such as money, power, as well as general incentives that are non-material. Acoording to V. H. Vroom (1964) suggested that people intentionally makes certain courses of action, based on their perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs, as a consequence of their desires (V. H. Vroom, 1964). In other words, Expectancy theory is emphasizes individual perceptions of the environment and subsequent interactions arising as a consequence of personal expectations (V. H. Vroom, 1964). These theories on the other hand are motivation theories that focus o n the internal attributes of the individual. Caruth Handlogten (2001) claimed that compensation can enhance the employee motivation. Compensation may refer to monetary or non-monetary, tangible or intangible, and physical or psychological, and these are offered to the employees for more productivity (Caruth Handlogten, 2001). If a company can satisfied an employee financial needs, the employee would naturally be motivated to work harder. However paying an employee will not retain them for a long period in the organization. To retain an employee and to keep him motivated and inspired, an employee must be empowered (Bratton, 1999). Empowered allows employee feels the ownership of business and make decision on their own which can increase its confidence by enhancing decision making power (Bratton, 1999). In the recent research from Watson Wyatt Worldwide, recommends that to attract the greatest employees, companies need to pay more than the average-paying in the market (Ira Kay and Bruce Pfau, 2001). Money provides most basic em ployees motivation. The leadership style of the managers also is important to implementation of the motivation programs. Quantitative studies conducted in the past showed positive relationship between leadership behavior and job satisfaction (Euske et al, 1982; Savery, 1994). A Managers leadership style contributes directly to the employees motivation and work satisfaction, and the work progress in the organization. A successful leader has a different view in the chain of command. He recognizes the importance of influencing the follower gently towards a desired goal (Miller,  1996). He does not force or pushed the followers to accomplish the goal of the organization (Maccoby, 1996). McConnell (1998) suggests that leader should spend more time to get to know his followers better. Leaders should pay attention to details regarding on their followers. Methodology: There are four major components apply into this research and shows its relationship to the employee motivation. This research consists of only 5 variables. The dependant variable would be Employee Motivation and the independent variable is included Maslow Hierarchy, Expectancy Theory, Compensation and Leadership Management. The theoretical framework for this research as bellow: Maslow Hierarchy Expectancy Theory Employee Motivation Compensation Leadership Management INDEPENDENT VARIABLE DEPENDENT VARIABLE The research method is qualitative for this study by a survey method. The total population of employees in Ernst Young Malaysia is 2300 in 2009. Further research will conducted to identify the present population. However, the target population for survey is all employees on the all the 17 office. In the data collection process, primary data is using to accomplish in this research. Employees will be sampled through convenience sampling in this research. So of the employees who do not want to participate in the study will be subtracted from the 100% original samples. A structured questionnaire will be designed for the purpose of this research. The questionnaire will contain 30 questions that would help identify the motivating factors of employees in Ernst Young.

The Effectiveness Of Hand Washing Nursing Essay

The Effectiveness Of Hand Washing Nursing Essay This essay attempts to investigate whether hand washing is an effective technique in the prevention of the spread of infection. I will do this by analyzing the existing evidence in relation to the hierarchy of evidence. I will then use the Critical Skills Appraisal Programme (CASP) (2006) to discuss three studies, while looking at the related literature. Finally in the conclusion I will discuss how the evidence I have analyzed will affect my future practice. According to the centers of disease control (2002) hand washing is the simplest most effective measure for preventing the spread of bacteria, pathogens and viruses. Hamer (1999) reports evidence based practice aims to aid professionals in effective decision making to reduce ineffective, inappropriate possible hazardous practices. The strength of the hierarchy of evidence is that it acknowledges the valid contribution of evidence generated by a range of different types of research. However, hierarchies only provide a guide to the strength of the available evidence and other issues such as the quality of research also have an important influence (Evans, 2003). Cool et al 1992 suggest that the highest form of evidence available should be combined with the highest recommendation range as this suggests superior validity, applying these forms of evidence to practice should be considered. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (2008) guide lines would support this idea that the use of evidence-based practice is appropriate and necessary within the clinical setting. According to Duffy (2008) reflection is a development process, which should benefit the heal th care professional and their practice as a result. The Gibbs (1988) reflection model will be used throughout this essay to help reflect on the chosen aspect of nursing. Gibbs model of reflection (1988) begins by giving a description of the event. While on placement I was caring for an elderly man. In a three hour period this patient had four episodes of a sudden need to have his bowels opened. Each time the stool appeared to be loose. After the third episode I told my mentor who told me to talk a sample the next time he had his bowels opened. We also made other members of the team aware of this. Following these episodes the patient began to vomit frequently. My mentor along with the senior nurse decided that the patient should be place in a side room to prevent the spread of a possible infection the patient may have. Once the patient had been transferred to his room all staff were to wear aprons and gloves when in the room and to wash their hands when leaving the room. My mentor explained to me that these steps were taken to prevent the spread of infection. I have decided to look at the evidence that suggests that hand hygiene helps to prevent the s pread of infection as from talking to other members of staff they knew they should wash their hands for infection control reasons but knew little more. The CASP (2006) tool will be used to appraise the chosen research. Search engines such as Internurse, Journal of advance nursing and Cochrane Collaboration were used. Three main bodies of research will be focused on throughout this essay. Ejemot RI et al (2009) carried out a systematic review to evaluate the effects of interventions to promote hand washing on diarrhea episodes in children and adults. Two authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias. In order for evidence based medicine to be practiced clinical expertise and clinical evidence from systematic reviews need to be combined (Sackett et al, 1997). Incidence rate ratios (IRR) were pooled using the generic inverse variance method and random-effects model with 95% confidence intervals (CI). This systematic review was carried out in 2009 with 14 Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT) meeting the inclusion criteria. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are perceived as the gold-standard evaluation method for evidence based medicine and the rest to be a lower level evidence (Fielding et al, 2008). The evidence within this journal is considered to have a high impact factor. The impact factor of a journal reflects the frequency with which the journal s articles are cited in the scientific literature (Saha et al, 2003). The impact factor is used to determine the quality of a piece of evidence (Garfield, 2005). Eight trials were institution-based in high-income countries (7711 participants), five were community-based in low or middle-income countries (8055 participants), and one was in a high-risk group (people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome), these sample sizes are adequate, however the trials were carried out in various countries such as China, Australia, Europe, and North America where resources and materials for hand washing are relatively available and accessible with the exception of China. This may hinder the results. Results showed a 39% reduction in diarrhoea episodes in children in institutions in high-income countries and a 32% reduction in episodes in children living in communities in low- or middle-income countries. The author acknowledges the need for longer follow up periods. Randle et al (2010) performed an observational study which measured healthcare workers (HCWs), patients and visitors hand hygiene compliance over a 24Â  hour period. The study took place in two hospital wards in 2010. This study monitored a total of 823 hand hygiene opportunities. 659 (80%) of these participants were HCWs, 75 (9%) for patients and 89 (11%) for visitors. Of the 659 hand hygiene opportunities available to HCWs, compliance by doctors was 47%, nurses 75%, ancillary nurses and other staff 59%, and allied health professionals 78%. For HCWs, compliance did not vary between the two wards but did by shift with compliance being lower in the morning shift. The author has recognized variables that may have affected the results such as profession, ward type, time of day, type of opportunity and patient or visitors. The author also sates the likelihood of HCWs being directly observed was very high. Such a bias might distort compliance percentages. The fact the study took place in one hospital may limit the findings as the specific infrastructure and organisation of work may influence behaviour. Direct observation is the gold standard to monitor compliance to optimal hand hygiene practice and we conducted observations using a previously validated hand hygiene observation tool. There are many advantages and disadvantages to using the direct observational technique. Evaluation brief (2008) state some of the disadvantages may be, observer bias, people usually perform better when they know they are being observed, although indirect observation may decrease this problem, Can be expensive and time-consuming compared to other data collection methods and does not increase your understanding of why people behave as they do. Advantages to the observational technique have been identified by DeWALT and DeWALT (2002) allows you to directly see what people do rather than relying on what people say they did which does not rely on peoples willingness or ability to provide i nformation. Burnett et al (2008) conducted a quantitative study which aimed to study exploring perceptions of nurses and patients towards patient hand hygiene and addressing current practice in relation to patients who were unable to independently perform their own hand hygiene. From the results of this study it is clears that patient hand hygiene is an important factor in controlling and preventing HCAI, but patients still remain unable to carry out this task independently as they are not given the opportunity to do so. Opportunities for hand decontamination were identified. The results showed, 57% opportunities before meal times, 21% opportunities following use of the commode at the bedside, 2% opportunities after using the urinal, 5% opportunities after visiting the toilet, 4% opportunities following vomiting and expectoration of sputum. Ethical considerations were made such as asking for consent. The senior charge nurse gave verbal consent for the study to take place on the various wards. St aff nurses who agree to take part in the studies completed questionnaires that remained anonymous. Patients who took part in this research were asked to provide written consent and finally all participants were given appropriate information explaining the intent of the study. The Human Rights Act protects the right to respect for private and family life and thus supports the need for consent to participate in research (Masson, 2004). All research involving NHS patients or staff or conducted on NHS premises have to be approved by a NHS Ethics Committee (Center of research ethical campaign, 2009).The study approved by The hospitals Committee on Medical Research Ethics. Banfield and Kerr (2005) suggest that patient hand hygiene as HCAI continue to rise despite hand hygiene research and the implementation of a multitude of intervention strategies, the author acknowledges that there were limitations to the study. Such limitations are that patients do not receive to opportunity to partici pate in correct hand hygiene procedure. The author also recommended that patient hand hygiene practices should become an important focus within infection control intervention strategies and consideration should be given to hand hygiene facilities when patients are unable to independently access hand washing sinks. In conclusion I have recognised that there is a large sum of evidence that can be applied to practice in relation to this topic. Appling evidence-based practice within the health care setting faces many barriers such as staff not having the time or means to access or critique data. The most valuable lesson I have learnt throughout this essay is that just because there is research on a topic does not mean that this piece of work is either valuable of credible. Due to this I have realised research should be analysed to determine whether the information is useful and can be applied in practice. From the papers I have analysed I have realised that hand washing is in fact the most effective way to prevent the spread of infection but factors such as environment time and profession can affect people from washing their hands effectively. From undertaking this assignment I feel that I will continue to access evidence which underpins our practice throughout my career.

Essay --

Mohamed Baiya Research paper 11-12-2013 Language and Culture Nothing distinguishes the human race from the rest of the species clearly more than owning the language and culture; Using language attributes unique to our species, we can connect any something notify minds. This ability enables us to learn from the lessons of previous generations and added to them; we live the values that you have gained in the past , as well as trial and error, to improve our lives . Has developed a combination of culture and language invincible human beings on the planet throne. However, the question remains oriented anthropologists and linguistics is not about the reason behind the greatness of language and culture to this point, but what makes them Important in the first place. We know that those two tools interrelated, and the core issue is to understand the nature of this relationship. Since the philosophical era of Aristotle and Plato, I found two basic ways, it is the Platonic perspective comes  « innate theory that believes that language is predetermined, and that it has a constant form is subject to change dictated by genes (or gods) . It is through the one-way; where facilitate language culture while not affecting the culture, the language, but in a minimalistic. But the idea of Aristotle says that many of the features identified by the language and cultural traditions serves socially. Over the past fifty years ago, followed the prevailing theory see Plato, saying that language is an innate ability ... ...e differ from those used by men; phrase  « I love those blouse with purple pale  » often will be the one who says lady, , unlike women who tend to the classical formulas . Similarly, differentiate culture among the spelling, the men and women of the language because they  « are interested in it. Any language that does not include the feature repeatability will be an example inversely refute this hypothesis, and this is what would argue that it applies to the language; This language refutes feature repeatability alleged Even when can learn repetition in other languages or show evidence of thinking recursively, as is the case with speakers language. Thus, if there is one language can exist without tag repeatability, all other languages can in terms of principle, and this contrasts with the claim that the repeatability is a prerequisite indispensable for human contact.

The Mystery :: Creative Writing Examples

The Mystery â€Å"Ring . . . Ring† screamed the phone. â€Å"Damn who could that be . . . its almost seven a.m. on a Saturday . . . . hold on Allison it will only take a minute . . . Hello?† detective Pat said.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å" Hey sorry Sergeant McGurn but we need you to come down to the station as soon as possible . . . there's more trouble over at Gibbons. Meet me there.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Hey sugar I have to go down to Gibbons there's more trouble, do you need a ride someplace?† said the exasperated homicide detective.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"It's always something with you Pat . . . every time I come over you either get called in or you're so drunk that you can't even remember who I am . . . It's over Pat!† and then she left.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Come on car . . . Please work . . . Just this once . . . There you go. No matter what anyone says your the best three tone Buick I've ever had.† See he was a real cheap skate, spent all his money on St. Ides and Old English 64oz.ers. He was always borrowing money too. He still owes me seven hundred ninety eight dollars and ninety five cents, plus tax. For a Harvard graduate he sure is a wash up. The only thing he could afford to drive was the car the police station gave him. It was a 1986 Buick with a green trunk, maroon body, and a navy blue hood. The thing took about three minutes to start and another five to warm up, and that was in the summer.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ten minutes later he showed up at my desk. I could still smell her perfume on him. He looked terrible, like usual, man he was such a good guy, but he didn't have a lucky bone in his body.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"So what's up now Steve? . . . another vending machine robbery . . . more scuff marks?† Pat looked like a detective, you know what I mean, the way the detectives looked in those old movies. He had a bad suit on, with a tie loosened and hanging down and his shirt opened up, and he usually was sleeping at his desk with the light dimmed and his feet up. The hat he had on looked like it had really been worn by a detective out of an old movie, it was all dirty and had a fold like somebody sat on it.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"No not this time Pat . . . Its a little worse .

Computers Affecting Our Lives :: essays research papers

Computers   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Since the beginning of human life, we as a people have always strived to obtain machines or tools to make our lives easier. Before the computer was invented in 1822, people were performing boring, repetitive tasks that we now take for granted. The computer, a modern complex machine, now accomplishes things we never thought possible. Computers, in general, have many benefits for they provide entertainment, help modern cities function, above all, make the most aggravating and mundane tasks incredibly simple.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One of the least important aspects of computers is that it provides entertainment and yet this is the sole reason why many people buy computers. The gaming and entertainment industry has become extremely large in the world, the products they sell range from shareware games to adult blood and gore. For instance, the 3D-shooter series, Quake, has sold millions of copies and essentially everyone in the world has seen it or played it. The entertainment industry not only provides gaming amusement but it also contributes learning programs, for children and adults, to help individuals excel in a certain trouble areas. Furthermore, computers also are also capable of training military personal in a virtual reality environment. An example of this is the U.S. and Canadian military, they both train soldiers and pilots in the ways of war using high tech computers and virtual reality equipment. To sum up, entertainment on the computer may not be important but is does satisfy mi llion of people worldwide.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cities as we know them today would not exist if it were not for the help of the computer. In a modern city hundreds of items are under control by computers and most of them we take for granted. For example, the traffic lights at all intersections are controlled by computers and sometimes even with the support of underground sensors. Without computers the entire electrical grid would fail and all of the world’s neoteric population would be without precious electricity. Another instance in which computers aid the modern city is the sewage and water system. Without computers, entire series of pumps and water stations would seize and stop working, which translates to a city without running water. On the whole, computers are a necessary innovation to help modern cities function to their fullest potential.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One of the most important uses of the computer is that it provides a person with a tool that can make the most difficult tasks incredibly insignificant. Computers Affecting Our Lives :: essays research papers Computers   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Since the beginning of human life, we as a people have always strived to obtain machines or tools to make our lives easier. Before the computer was invented in 1822, people were performing boring, repetitive tasks that we now take for granted. The computer, a modern complex machine, now accomplishes things we never thought possible. Computers, in general, have many benefits for they provide entertainment, help modern cities function, above all, make the most aggravating and mundane tasks incredibly simple.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One of the least important aspects of computers is that it provides entertainment and yet this is the sole reason why many people buy computers. The gaming and entertainment industry has become extremely large in the world, the products they sell range from shareware games to adult blood and gore. For instance, the 3D-shooter series, Quake, has sold millions of copies and essentially everyone in the world has seen it or played it. The entertainment industry not only provides gaming amusement but it also contributes learning programs, for children and adults, to help individuals excel in a certain trouble areas. Furthermore, computers also are also capable of training military personal in a virtual reality environment. An example of this is the U.S. and Canadian military, they both train soldiers and pilots in the ways of war using high tech computers and virtual reality equipment. To sum up, entertainment on the computer may not be important but is does satisfy mi llion of people worldwide.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cities as we know them today would not exist if it were not for the help of the computer. In a modern city hundreds of items are under control by computers and most of them we take for granted. For example, the traffic lights at all intersections are controlled by computers and sometimes even with the support of underground sensors. Without computers the entire electrical grid would fail and all of the world’s neoteric population would be without precious electricity. Another instance in which computers aid the modern city is the sewage and water system. Without computers, entire series of pumps and water stations would seize and stop working, which translates to a city without running water. On the whole, computers are a necessary innovation to help modern cities function to their fullest potential.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One of the most important uses of the computer is that it provides a person with a tool that can make the most difficult tasks incredibly insignificant.

Leadership Development SMART Goal Setting Essay

The purpose of this assignment is to develop a SMART-formatted goal on a selected professional leadership topic applicable to your current practice setting or future leadership development goals. This goal is about your leadership development needs, not those of the organization. The Institute of Medicine’s quality initiative has identified five core healthcare profession competencies that serve as a framework for identification of the leadership goal. Course Outcomes Completion of this assignment enables the student to meet the following course outcomes. CO 1: Apply leadership concepts, skills, and decision making in the provision of high quality nursing care, healthcare team management, and the oversight and accountability for care delivery in a variety of settings. (PO #2) CO 4: Apply concepts of leadership and team coordination to promote the achievement of safe and quality outcomes of care for diverse populations. (PO #4) CO 5: Apply improvement methods, based on data from the outcomes of care processes, to design and test changes to continuously improve the quality and safety of healthcare. (PO #8) CO 8: Apply concepts of quality and safety using structure, process, and outcome measures to identify clinical questions as the beginning process of changing current practice. (PO #8) Due Dates This assignment consists of the completion of the Leadership Development SMART Goal Setting paper. Submit assignment to the Dropbox by Sunday, 11:59 p.m. MT, by the end of Week 4. Points This assignment is worth 200 points. Directions 1. Review the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) core healthcare competencies. Choose ONE of these competencies that you would like to work on for developing a SMART goal. The five core competencies are listed below. Managing Patient-Centered Care; Working in interdisciplinary and/or interprofessional teams; Employing evidence-based practice; Applying quality improvement techniques; and Utilizing informatics. 2. Name ONE KSA (Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes) related to the specific core competency you chose above. Examples of KSAs (Knowledge, Skills and Attributes) for your Leadership Development Goal Setting include conflict resolution, becoming influential, leading change, communication about the patient, communication organization-wide, team building conversations, organizational skills, using evidence to guide your practice, initiating QI/PI endeavors, using data to help with decision making, staff education, problem solving, human resource management issues, delegation, decision making, budgeting and finance, and computer skills. Others are possible! If you have questions, please contact your instructor. 3. Create ONE leadership development goal that is in the SMART goal format. You practiced this in the Week 3 Discussion, and received valuable feedback from your instructor and peers. Please consider this as you work on this assignment. S – Specific (Who is involved in the goal, what is the goal, where will it take place?) M – Measurable (How are you going to achieve the goal?) Be specific with measureable outcomes. A – Attainable (What resources and/or experts are available to assist you with attaining your goal?) R – Realistic (Is this goal something that is realistically obtainable in professional practice?) T – Time bound (What specific dates or weeks will  you accomplish each task of your goal achievement?) Example NOT in SMART format: I will learn how to be a manager. This goal is lofty, not measurable, and unattainable in the time allotted, probably not realistic, and not time bound. Example in SMART Format: I will learn the disciplinary process of an employee who has excessive absences, by locating the organization’s attendance policy and meeting with the unit manager, reviewing peer-reviewed articles and credible websites to obtain information on the disciplinary process by Week 4 (or specified date). Note: This particular example relates to Core Competency: Managing Patient-Centered Care. This example is a SMART goal that is Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound. S-Specific Who- Your name, or â€Å"I† What- Learn the disciplinary process of employees who have excessive absences Where- Your organization M-Measurable How: Through locating the organization’s attendance policy A-Attainable Resources and/or Expert: Meeting with the unit manager, reviewing peer-reviewed articles, and credible websites R-Realistic Realistically obtainable: Access to the organization, policies, and unit manager T-Time bound Specific dates: By Week 4 (or specific date) 4. Go to the Chamberlain library and search the databases to locate scholarly articles related to your SMART goal. Also, search for credible websites to gain insight into how to accomplish your goal. 5. Construct a plan of action to reach your Leadership SMART goal that includes identifying the attributes  needed in order to achieve your goal. Be specific by creating a timeline of when you plan on doing each action; explain how, when, and where you plan to communicate with an expert; and identify specific resources you will use to help you achieve your goal. a. Example Plan of Action for above mentioned example: Seek approval to review the organization’s policies and schedule a meeting/interview with the unit manager by _____ (fill in date). Review the policies on disciplinary action by _____ (fill in date). Review the American Nurses Association website and peer-reviewed articles in the American Journal of Nursing and Journal of Advanced Nursing by _____ (fill in date). Evaluate the findings from the above resources by _____ (fill in date). 6. Write a scholarly paper that follows APA formatting guidelines. Organize your content logically and express your thoughts clearly. Use appropriate headers to separate sections of your paper. Check for any grammar or spelling errors before submission. 7. Submit your completed NR447 Leadership Development SMART Goal paper, which should be approximately six pages (excluding title page and references) to the Week 4 Leadership SMART Goal Setting Paper Dropbox by Sunday, 11:59 p.m. MT at the end of Week 4. Grading Criteria: Leadership Development Smart Goal Setting Category Points % Description Choose ONE of the IOM core competencies to develop a SMART goal 10 5% Selects the specific IOM core competency upon which SMART goal is based. Name ONE KSA (Knowledge, Skills and Attributes) related to the ONE specific core competency 15 7% Names ONE KSA based on a specific IOM core competency noted above and describes how the KSA relates to the specific IOM core competency previously selected. Develop one specific leadership SMART goal. 55 28% Develops a professional leadership (SMART) goal, formatted correctly containing specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time bound attributes. KSA is related to the core competency selected. Locate scholarly articles and credible websites relevant to your SMART goal. 20 10% Locates scholarly articles and credible websites related to SMART goal/KSA. Summarizes articles and websites in body of paper. Construct a plan of action for SMART goal. 80 40% Constructs a plan of action for SMART goal, identifying the attributes needed in order to achieve the goal; creates a timeline, explains how the plan will unfold, and how specific resources (articles and websites) will be utilized in effort to achieve goal. Plan is apparent in body of paper. Clarity of writing 20 10% Content is organized, logical, and with correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure are correct. APA formatting is apparent. References are properly cited within the paper; reference page includes all citations; proper title page and introduction are present and evidence of spell and grammar check is obvious. Grading Rubric for Leadership Development SMART Goal Setting Assignment Criteria Outstanding or Highest Level of Performance A Very Good or High Level of Performance B Competent or Satisfactory Level of Performance C Poor, Failing, or Unsatisfactory Level of Performance F Choose ONE of the IOM core competencies to develop a SMART goal 10 points Chooses only one IOM core competency upon which SMART goal is based. 9–10 points Chooses an IOM core competency but it is the best fit for the SMART goal. 8 points Chooses a competency but it is not an IOM core competency. 7 points Fails to choose any competency. 0–6 points Name ONE KSA (Knowledge, Skills and Attributes) related to the chosen IOM core competency. 15 points Names ONE KSA based on the chosen IOM core competency AND describes in detail how the KSA relates to the competency. 14–15 points Names ONE KSA based on the chosen competency but describes in general terms how the KSA relates to the competency. 12–13 points Names ONE KSA based on the chosen competency but does not describe, or only vaguely describes, how the KSA relates to the competency. 10–11 points Does not name a KSA. 0–9 points Develop one specific leadership SMART goal. 55 points Develops a leadership goal that is formatted correctly containing specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time bound attributes AND it is related to the chosen competency and KSA. 51–55 points Develops a leadership goal that is formatted correctly except for one component that does not meet the SMART goal criteria, i.e., not specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, or time bound. The goal is related to the chosen competency and the KSA. 46–50 points Develops a leadership goal that is somewhat formatted correctly, but two or three components do not meet the criteria for a SMART goal, The goal is NOT related to the chosen competency OR KSA. 42–45 points Does not follow SMART goal formatting. The goal is not related to the chosen competency and/or KSA. 0–41 points Locate scholarly articles and credible websites relevant to your SMART goal. 20 points Locates at least two scholarly articles and two credible websites related to the SMART Goal and KSA chosen. Summarizes all of them thoroughly. 18–20 points Locates one scholarly article and two credible websites. OR, locates one credible website and two scholarly articles. Summaries all of them generally. 16–17 points Locates only one scholarly article and only one credible website. Summarized them but with some inaccuracy. 14–15 points Locates no scholarly sources of support. Summary is missing or inaccurate. 0–13 points Construct a plan of action for SMART goal. 80 points Constructs a detailed plan of action for achieving the SMART goal, identifying all the attributes needed in order to achieve the goal. Creates a timeline that explains how the plan will unfold. Fully describes how chosen scholarly resources (articles and websites) provide insight into achieving the goal. 74–80 points Constructs a plan of action for achieving the SMART goal but fails to include one to two of the identifying attributes needed in order to achieve the goal. Creates a general timeline. Describes only some of the chosen scholarly articles and websites to achieve the goal. 67–73 points Constructs a plan of action for achieving the SMART goal, but doesn’t speak to the identifying attributes. Fails to create a realistic timeline, or fails to explain how the plan will unfold. Does not adequately describe how chosen scholarly articles and websites will help achieve the goal. 61–66 points Constructs a plan of action that doesn’t speak to the attributes. Fails to create any timeline. Does not indicate how chosen scholarly articles and websites will achieve the goal. 0–60 points Clarity of writing 20 points Content is organized, logical, and with correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure are correct. APA formatting is apparent. References are properly cited within the paper; reference page includes all citations; proper title page and introduction are present and evidence of spell and grammar check is obvious. Less than three errors noted. 18–20 points Content is mostly organized, logical and with correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure are correct. APA formatting is apparent. References are properly cited within the paper; reference page includes all citations; proper title page and introduction are present and evidence of spell check and grammar check is obvious. Four to six errors noted. 16–17 points Content is somewhat organized, logical and with correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure are correct. APA formatting is apparent. References are properly cited within the paper; reference page  includes all citations; proper title page and introduction are present and evidence of spell check and grammar check are not obvious. Seven to 10 errors noted. 14–15 points Content is disorganized and writing has numerous grammar, spelling, or syntax errors and APA formatting errors. Spell check and grammar check are not obvious. More than 11 errors noted. 0–13 points Total Points Possible= 200 Points Earned = A quality assignment will meet or exceed all of the above requirements.

Prejudice and Discrimination Essay

What is social psychology? Social psychology is defined as the scientific study of how a person’s behavior, thoughts, and feelings are influenced by the actual, imagined or implied presence of other human beings. As we look back over the past few years, we see that some form of prejudice and discrimination still exist today in society. I want to elaborate on and define the types of prejudices and how people discriminate, how they are learned, and how to overcome prejudice. Prejudice is defined as a preconceived judgment or opinion that is usually based on limited information about a group or groups of people. Some people would commonly agree that prejudice is stereotyping. Discrimination is prejudicial attitudes that cause members of a particular social group to be treated differently than others in situations that call for equal treatment. There are many kinds of prejudices or attitudes, but discrimination is a result of prejudice. Several ways in which people are discriminated upon include age, race, and sex. People are often prejudice toward those form different ethnic groups, those form different religions, those from different economic levels, those who are overweight, and those who are too thin. Prejudice vary in two different types of groups called the in-groups and the out-groups or the â€Å"us† versus â€Å"them†. These groups are formed early in childhood. The in-groups are considered to be the particular person for whom they are identified with and the out-group is to be considered everyone else. Soon after the in-groups are established, the prejudice and discriminatory treatment of the out-group or groups soon follow. Then the out-groups are stereotyped based on the color of their skin or color of their hair and can be difficult. There are many laws that are in place to minimize or control the discriminatory behavior, but there is no law against having a certain attitude. The realistic conflict theory in prejudice is the increase of prejudice and discrimination by a degree of conflict between in-groups and the out-groups over limited resource, such as land or a job. A current example not related to land but religion would be, according to, â€Å"Neal Broverman, of The Advocate, Virginia’s lower house passed that would allow student groups at public universities to deny members because they conflict with the groups’ religious beliefs. This bill would prohibit discriminating against a student organization or group on the basis of the religious, political, philosophical or other content of the organization or group’s speech. † The bill also allows religious or political student organizations to determine who will not be allowed in their membership â€Å"in furtherance of the organization’s religious or political mission. â€Å"

Angels and Demons †Dan Brown Essay

The novel, â€Å"Angels And Demons† by Dan Brown, is a story of when a world renowned scientist was found butally murdered and a proffessor named Robert Langdon is summoned to identify the mysterious symbol scared into his chest. His conclusion is it was the work of the Illuminati, a secret brotherhood presumed extinct for nearly four hundred years and is now reborn to continue their fight againgst their sworn enemy, the Catholic Church. One of the themes in the book seems to be that science and religion are two sides of the same story. The bible talks about God who created good and evil, warmth and coldness etc. It is not clear whether the book tells us that science proves God, or that science is God, or if the author is just trying to create debate and propose a different point of view on religion. In another book by Dan Brown, â€Å"The Da Vinci Code†, he shows that he is open for new theories on Christianity. The greatest example of devotion is from the Camerlengo, who although was misguided, acts because he believes that he is doing God’s will. The camerlengo masterminds the whole situation, from the antimatter in the Vatican to poisoning the Pope to the deaths of the four cardinals. He believes that if people think the Illuminati has reemerged and is threatening the church, they will return to their faith to the Catholic Church. He truly believes that everything he does has been for the good of the church and that he has been chosen to lead people back to religion and faith. This kind of devotion and determination is also shown in the movie, â€Å"Remember The Titans†, as Coach Boone is determined to unite the races as he believes that the ongoing hatred between the different ethnic groups should stop.

Adolescents On-line

As technology give way to broader telecommunication options, a new form of social community was formed. The Cyber Community has been one of the most intriguing forms of contemporary society and adolescents welcomed it willingly.Today’s adolescents are vicariously participating in online social networks. According to the research made by Wolak and colleague, out of 246 individuals who engaged in close online relationships about 145 do not see each other face to face. Thus, it can be surmised that face to face relationships are not anymore a factor that affects relationships between two persons.Conventional friendships signifies personal contact which is absent in on-line relationships. Nonetheless, both relationships exist so as to provide comfort and help to participants. However, in on-line relationships, the level of trust and confidence is usually lower. While some people see on line relationships to be a way to escape reality, others view this sort of relationship as helpf ul in identifying real personality and attitude.Adolescents use online networking to communicate both with their online friends and offline friends as well. They can also send messages and express themselves more freely and at most times most effectively. Several online games which are predominantly role-playing games in character also extend adolescents capacity to interact with other people.Negotiating and solving conflicts are highlighted in this kind of virtual social community. It also through different virtual social networks that teenagers can gather information about certain areas of interest and views, this is a feature that can be found in forums and blogs.References:Subrahmanyam, K. and Greenfield, P. (2008). Online Communication and Adolescent Relationships. Volume 18 No. 1. Retrieved on October 18, 2008 from www.futureofchildren.orgWolak, J., Mitchell, KJ. And Finkelhor, D. (2002) Close Online Relationships ina National Sample of Adolescents. Retrieved on October 18, 20 08 from http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2248/is_147_37/ai_94598385/pg_

Greater Middle East Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Greater Middle East - Essay Example This unique geography is one that has caused the regions of Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, and Syria to have a direct linkage to trade. Due to the fact that this region serves as a conduit between Asia, Africa, and Europe, the level and amount of trade that has historically flowed through this region is profound and has affected the cultural and economic development of these regions to a high degree. By means of contrast, the desert areas of the Arabian Peninsula have historically not held a great level of importance; however, with the discovery of vast oil resources within these areas, the economic power of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf States has grown astronomically. By means of comparison and measurement, the region of Egypt has historically held a profoundly powerful dynamic in the region not only as a result of the water resource of the Nile that it controls but also the powerful conduit between Africa, Asia, and Eurasia (Taguem, 2010). By much the same level of measurement, the sustenance and developmental power that the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers have been able to provide the area known as the Fertile Crescent has allowed the region that is defined by the modern day state of Iraq to develop in a manner that other Middle Eastern states were envious of over the past several hundred, and even thousands, of years (Mahmood, 2013). At the time that European powers came to colonize parts of the Middle East, they were surprised by the level of development and military strength that the Arabs living within the Fertile Crescent were able to engage. This was no doubt the result of the fact that geography had played a powerful role in providing this particular region with the much needed resource of water; subsequently allowing this particular area to develop to an extent that other areas throughout the Middle East could only dream of

Project X Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Project X - Essay Example For the success of our project X, whose goal is to create a defense mechanism to save major important cities of the US from enemy missile attack, it is of utmost importance that we consider these methods and identify the potential risks for project X. Quantitative Risk Assessment System (QRAS) is a personal computer (PC)-based software tool for performing Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) supporting decision on funding -- cost-estimation steps. QRAS is designed to bridge the gap between professional risk analyst and the design engineer. It is a user-friendly, graphical interface design, used by managers and engineers with minimal specialized risk assessment training. Its front-end is a graphical point-and click tree system model, combined with elements, subsystems, and sub-systems – the system hierarchy used to attach known accident initiators or failure modes. This hierarchical feature helps in making a Master Logic Diagram. Mission profiles can be set on sub system run times – a Mission Timeline module feature. The potential risks of failure probabilities can be calculated with the Timing data in other parts of the QRAS. This tool helps in constructing Event Sequence Diagrams (ESDs), explaining the scenarios lea ding to catastrophic failures or success of pivotal events showing fail-safe design or even emergency procedures and reasons of failures. Fault trees are built with graphical interfaces, which are joined to ESD models. The different features of QRAS are quantified to check failure probabilities in physical variables, providing fast and exact solutions. This software tool generates conventional event tree, minimum cut sets of system fault trees and ESD end states automatically for the risk scenarios. The software tool QRAS can identify the potential best estimate of catastrophic failure probability of a mission like the loss of Mobile Housing Unit (MHU). It would calculate a system’s top-level and intermediate

Journal Entry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Journal Entry - Essay Example This not only helps us keep to the point and on the right track in the way of achieving our goals, but also makes us more confidant as we know what we want and what we need to do in order to accomplish our goals. Knowledge of self also has a good effect on others and others tend to think good of us because we are never impressed with people that are confused and unsure about what they want in life in general and in a particular setting in particular. One factor that I like about the chapter is that the author has supported the arguments with credible sources. Another factor that is worthy of appreciation is that the author has tried to make a holistic approach in discussing and analyzing various aspects of self-knowledge, be it the levels of management in an organization, or the three levels of self i.e. individual, interpersonal, and collective. Yet another factor that I like about this chapter is that it is not just a discussion of what self-knowledge is and what its different aspects are, but also mentions different exercises and activities doing which one’s knowledge of self can be increased. I did all of the activities mentioned in the chapter and as a result of this found a significant increase in my self-knowledge. These activities were quite interesting and easy to do. I intend to do these exercises and activities periodically; probably once every three months to see how I have changed as a person over the period. The author has made it very easy for the readers to understand him by not just discussing the complicated terms, but also defining them first e.g. emotional challenges and value maturity. I personally believe that knowledge of self is fundamental to one’s improvement as a human being. One cannot improve one’s personality unless one does not identify one’s flaws, strengths, and weaknesses. Reflection on